5.1 – Investigating Constant Velocity Using a Trolley or Rider (Leaving Cert Physics): Flashcards

Equal distances in equal time intervals along a straight line

Velocity is vector (has direction); speed is scalar

50 Hz (50 dots per second)

$t = \frac{n}{50}$ where $n$ is number of spaces

$v = \frac{s}{t}$ where $s$ is distance, $t$ is time

To compensate for/overcome friction

Evenly spaced dots throughout motion

Count spaces between dots, not the dots themselves

Virtually eliminates friction (frictionless motion)

Perfectly horizontal (level), checked with spirit level

Measures transit time of card/rider passing through

$v = \frac{l}{t}$ where $l$ is card length, $t$ is time

Keep eye directly above measurement point

1/50th of a second (0.02 s)

Multiple measurements show consistent velocity readings